Pienaar: Back to Everton

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Pitso delight at Pienaar loan

South Africa national-team boss Pitso Mosimane is delighted that Steven Pienaar has secured a return to Everton.

The Bafana Bafana midfielder had been warming the bench at Premier League title contenders Tottenham this season following the arrival of Scott Parker, this after initially impressing in his first season at the club.

A proposed loan move to Queens Park Rangers fell apart on transfer deadline day before Pienaar managed to secure a similar deal with his former employers.

The 29-year-old had been a mainstay in the Toffees side during his four years on Merseyside where he made over 100 appearances, and Mosimane is keen to see his star player back on the pitch where he belongs.

He said: “It is a good and wise move for his career. The Everton coach (David Moyes) loves him and the fans in Liverpool adore him.

“Don’t forget it is at Everton where Schillo played the best soccer of his career and I have no doubt this move is what we all wanted.”

Injuries also played a part in curtailing Pienaar’s involvement at White Hart Lane with Mosimane admitting he has been missed by the national side.

“His injuries were not only a blow to Spurs but to the whole Bafana Bafana campaign because whenever he dons the national team jersey, he is one player who gives his all. He is a true leader.”